Work

Extreme weather events and military conflict over seven centuries in ancient Korea

Year: 2021

Type: article

Abstract: Significance We examine the link between extreme weather events and interstate conflict using data covering the three ancient kingdoms on the Korean Peninsula over seven centuries. Extreme weather events, such as drought and heavy rainfall, have a direct causal effect on conflict, but this effect is asymmetric: Shocks are far more likely to give rise to opportunistic invasions (where the state experiencing the shock is attacked) than to desperate invasions (where the state experiencing the shock initiates attack). We identify food insecurity as a critical source of vulnerability. Since climate change is leading to increased frequency of extreme weather events, a better understanding of the implications for labor-intensive armed conflict can help with mitigation strategies.

Source: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences

DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2021976118

Authors: Tackseung Jun, Rajiv Sethi

Institutions: Kyung Hee University, Santa Fe Institute, Columbia University, Barnard College

Language: English

Topic: Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones

Subfield: Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Climate action, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W3138183064

FWCI: 2.044

Cites: 41

Cited by: 17

Related to: 10